It is "completely impossible" that Gareth Bale will join Real Madrid in January, according to Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas.

Bale has been linked with the Spanish giants for some time, and reports in Spain this week have suggested that Madrid are preparing to launch a big-money bid for the Wales international, who has admitted he is interested in playing in La Liga at some point in the future.

Barcelona are also showing interest in Bale, but Villas-Boas insists a move will not happen next month.

"It is completely impossible he will leave in January," AVB said.

"The transfer window always gives you the opportunity to strengthen your squad. Teams will lose players to African Cup of Nations, but there is a chance to strengthen a little bit.

"Ideally you’d prefer to avoid it. It’s for us, we should plan our season, stick to players we see in summer, define our season in our season plan and go on from there.

"I think ideally for managers and clubs it would be a better situation if the window didn’t open or opened for less than one month. For players it is important to have that possibility to go and play more."

Villas-Boas also revealed Bale may return from a hamstring injury in time to face Stoke in the Premier League this weekend.

"Bale has made good progression and he will be in contention for the game against Stoke," he added.

"Obviously he is an important player for us who can make a difference like in the game against Liverpool. Players like his can make the difference for you."